Publications / Civil Law

UAE Consumer Q&As: I'm Being Charged for a Credit Card I Didn't Want

For most UAE residents, credit card transactions are straightforward affairs. However, it's also common to hear of instances where people are find themselves with legal problems or even face jail as a result of misunderstandings with their bank. This week in The National, I explained a variety of issues including about what protections exist for consumers in relation to unwanted credit cards, as well as quality of meat and prohibited the sale of expired goods.

Credit cards are issued to clients after the approval and consent of both parties, following the client signing an agreement with his or her bank. Using the credit card will activate it - but if you didn't use or activate your credit card, you have a right to complain to the Central Bank of the UAE through their office or website. The Central Bank is the authority that has ratified regulations on monitoring fair bank loans and credit card lending. However, it is the responsibility of the consumer to always check agreements before signing to ensure there is no breach or misunderstanding within transactions.

The UAE Consumer Protection Department takes the quality control of food and other products seriously. Quality of meat, its origin, and how it was slaughtered should be well-labeled in order to inform consumers, as well as for the benefit of the government. Attempts by establishments to deceive by violating these terms will be met with a maximum jail term of two years and a fine of between Dh500 and Dh20,000. Consumers have a right to know the quality of meat before purchase.

Similarly, expired products should not be put on sale or have their expiration date tampered with just for commercial gain. According to Article 1 of Law No. 4 of 1979, it's illegal for the seller to offer or advertise expired products. Anyone found guilty of such an act faces a jail term and/or fine of up to Dh100,000 for misconduct.